Young People In Ontario Challenged to Change the World

Annual Challenge Encourages High School Students to Volunteer in their Communities

Ontario is encouraging high school students to change the world through the power of volunteering during the 10th ChangeTheWorld – Ontario Youth Volunteer Challenge.

The six-week challenge takes place from April 23 to June 3 this year, coinciding with National Volunteer Week, which runs from April 23 to 29.

This year’s goal is for 39,000 students aged 14 to 18 to volunteer for at least three hours during the campaign.

The ChangeTheWorld – Ontario Youth Volunteer Challenge is delivered in partnership with the Ontario Volunteer Centre Network and 23 of its volunteer centres across the province. The campaign encourages young people to give back and get involved, and helps them develop important transferable skills such as leadership and teamwork.

Encouraging young people to volunteer in their communities is part of our plan to create jobs, grow our economy and help people in their everyday lives.

Additional Resources

• Learn more about volunteering in Ontario.
• Find a ChangeTheWorld – Ontario Youth Volunteer Challenge activity near you.
• Read about Ontario’s volunteer recognition programs.

Quotes

“I look forward to young people experiencing the many benefits of volunteering first-hand through the 2017 ChangeTheWorld – Ontario Youth Volunteer Challenge. Whether volunteering in their schools, in their communities or for causes they are passionate about, our youth truly can change the world and change their lives by dedicating their time to volunteerism.”

Laura Albanese – Minister of Citizenship and Immigration

 

“We know volunteering is a wonderful way for teens to make an impact in their communities and build valuable skills while having fun. I am thrilled that high school students can participate in ChangeTheWorld to complete their community service hours so they can become active and engaged citizens.”

Mitzie Hunter – Minister of Education

“The ChangeTheWorld – Ontario Youth Volunteer Challenge not only offers youth ages 14 – 18 meaningful volunteer opportunities, but provides them a platform to apply their skills and talents for the good of their communities. By connecting with other motivated youth and with numerous community service organizations, many youth find their passion and become lifelong volunteers. In this, our 10th ChangeTheWorld, we are challenging youth to surpass the required 40 hours of community involvement for secondary school graduation and go #BEYOND40. Through our website, find your local volunteer centre and spring into action!”

Patricia Weiler – Chair of the Ontario Volunteer Centre Network